10/03/2024 | News release | Distributed by Public on 10/03/2024 12:38
There are many in the community who want to help reduce or even prevent Veteran suicides. That's where VA's National Center for Healthcare Advancement and Partnerships (HAP) comes in. HAP finds and manages non-monetary partnerships with community organizations that use innovative strategies to support suicide prevention among Veterans.
One of those partnerships is with OnStar
OnStar, a global leader in safety services and connected vehicle technology, is committed to enhancing access to suicide prevention and emergency services for Veterans. Originally established in 2020, this collaboration offers Veterans in crisis the opportunity for around-the-clock, confidential support via VA's Veterans Crisis Line (VCL) when they use the emergency services button in an OnStar-equipped vehicle or OnStar Guardian smartphone app.
According to the 2023 National Veteran Suicide Prevention Annual Report, rates of Veteran suicide increased from 2020 to 2021. However, some Veterans have seen a decrease in suicide rates: Veteran men aged 75+, those aged 55-74 who utilize Veterans Health Administration (VHA) services and those aged 18-34 who recently used VHA services.
"VA's work with OnStar is an example of harnessing innovative solutions for Veteran care," said Chien Chen, HAP chief officer and nurse executive. "This collaboration strengthens VA suicide prevention efforts and supports Veterans in receiving timely, effective support in critical moments of need."
VA and OnStar aim to enhance suicide prevention efforts by improving access to preventative and emergency services for Veterans experiencing a crisis. Through this partnership, VA clinicians can access additional resources when developing suicide prevention safety plans with Veterans.
"OnStar and VA are united by a shared goal of supporting Veterans in times of distress," said Jim Lanier, Public Safety manager at OnStar. "We continue to work together 24/7 by harnessing cutting-edge technology and OnStar's Emergency Advisors to provide compassionate support and get our Veterans the appropriate resources provided by the Veterans Crisis Line."
VA aims to address the unique needs of Veterans
VA and OnStar's collaborative efforts provide additional avenues of support to Veterans in crisis, potentially saving lives and promoting overall health and well-being. This partnership shows how technology and compassion can come together to create effective solutions for one of the most pressing issues for Veterans.
VA suicide prevention resources
Department of Defense suicide prevention resources
Get more information about VHA partnerships.
Get more information about OnStar.